New Zealand Legalizes Medical Marijuana

New Zealand’s Parliament has approved a medical marijuana bill. The country’s Health Minister, David Clark, indicated that its regulations will be in place within a year.

The law classifies CBD as a prescription medication rather than a controlled substance, according to The Shillong Times.

An affirmative defense clause will also be put in place for those in palliative care, allowing them to use illegal marijuana without prosecution.

Clark said, “People nearing the end of their lives should not have to worry about being arrested or imprisoned for trying to manage their pain. So as a compassionate measure we are also creating a statutory defense for people eligible to receive palliation so that they can use illicit cannabis without fear of prosecution.”

Cultivation will be permitted in New Zealand and some products may be marketed internationally.